Kiggans Introduces Legislation to Build Next Generation of Military Leaders

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the Engaging Next-Generation Leaders in Information about Service and Training (ENLIST) Act alongside Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). This bipartisan legislation would require high schools to prominently display military recruiting information so students can fully consider service as a path after graduation. Currently, college brochures and career fair flyers line the walls of high schools across America, but information about joining the military is often left behind. By ensuring recruiting materials get equal space, this bill aims to empower students with the full knowledge of all post-graduation pathways, including the opportunity to serve.

“As a Navy veteran, Navy spouse, and Navy mom, I believe every young American deserves to understand the vast opportunities military service can provide,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “When America’s high school students are weighing their post-graduation options and deciding their future, they deserve to understand every potential path. My ENLIST Act ensures that students see military service as a viable and honorable path after graduation – right alongside college and the workforce. This bipartisan legislation is about fairness, visibility, and giving our next generation the full picture of how they can lead, grow, and serve their country.”

“Too often, students aren’t given clear information about military service as a path after graduation, despite a growing interest in service among our youth,” said Congressman Panetta. “The ENLIST Act ensures military recruiting materials are as visible and accessible in schools as college and career information, giving students a full picture of their post-graduation options.  When we inform and empower young people to serve, we strengthen our communities and uphold the values that define our democracy.”

“The Navy League recognizes the critical importance of recruiting the next generation of military servicemembers to defend the homeland and safeguard our national security,” said Mike Stevens, CEO of the Navy League of the United States.“Unfortunately, too many of our talented young citizens are unaware of the career opportunities available through service in the armed forces. The ENLIST Act addresses this deficiency and ensures that young people across the country have all of the information necessary to make an informed decision about a possible future in the United States military.”

“We at Veterans for Mustangs are proud to endorse the ENLIST Act,” said Veterans for Mustangs. “This is a vital step toward ensuring that students are fully informed about the opportunities available in the U.S. military. Several of our members attended schools that actively barred military recruiters from advertising or participating in career day, which is appalling! The military offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, education, and meaningful service, yet many students remain unaware due to biased or restrictive policies. To us, military service is not just a job, it’s a pathway to leadership, discipline, and purpose. This legislation will ensure that every student has the chance to consider this honorable and rewarding career option, and we fully support its passage!”

Background:

You can find the full text of this bill here.

You can find a one pager on this bill here.

• The ENLIST Act would require secondary schools to display and make accessible information regarding military recruiting during school hours, building on existing law that guarantees military recruiters have the same access to schools as colleges and employers.

• Federal law mandates access for military recruiters in schools receiving federal funds, but many schools fall short in making recruitment information visible and accessible to students outside of recruiter visits.

• By requiring recruiting materials to be available, the ENLIST Act empowers high school students with the full knowledge of all post-graduation pathways, including the opportunity to serve.

• Approximately 70,000 people enlist in the Armed Forces annually, and about half are recent high school graduates. This path offers a wide range of benefits, including job security, career training, and educational opportunities.

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